Arjo Sara Stedy

Asset Type

Patient Lift

Manufacturer

Arjo

Model

Sara Stedy

What This Guide Helps With

Frame feels loose, wobbly, or unstable during use due to loose hardware, worn joints, or structural fatigue.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Ensure Patient Safety First

• Remove the lift from active patient use before troubleshooting.
• Expected: Patient safely transferred to another device.
• Why it matters: Frame instability creates a high fall and injury risk.

Verify the Reported Issue

• Gently push and pull on the frame (handle, base, knee support area) to identify movement.
• Expected: Noticeable looseness, wobble, or shifting at joints.
• Why it matters: Confirms true instability and helps localize the affected area.

Inspect All Visible Fasteners and Hardware

• Check bolts, screws, and mounting points at key joints (base, vertical column, handle assembly).
• Expected: Hardware should be present, tight, and secure.
• Why it matters: Loose or missing hardware is the most common cause of frame instability.
• If loose hardware is found → tighten to secure fit and retest stability.
• If missing hardware is found → remove from service until replaced.

Check for Worn or Enlarged Mounting Points

• Inspect holes, brackets, and connection points for elongation, cracking, or wear.
• Expected: Mounting points should be round, intact, and not deformed.
• Why it matters: Worn mounting points prevent proper tightening and indicate structural fatigue.
• If deformation is found → remove from service.

Inspect Welded Joints and Frame Integrity

• Visually examine welds and frame tubing for cracks, separation, or bending.
• Expected: Welds should be intact with no visible cracks or gaps.
• Why it matters: Weld failure compromises the entire structural integrity of the lift.
• If any crack or separation is found → immediately remove from service.

Check Base and Vertical Column Connection

• Focus on the connection between the base and upright column for movement.
• Expected: No independent movement between base and column.
• Why it matters: This is a primary load-bearing joint; looseness here is critical.

Assess for Excessive Wear or Long-Term Fatigue

• Consider age, usage level, and history of the device.
• Expected: Frame should remain rigid under normal handling.
• Why it matters: High-use devices can develop fatigue even without visible damage.
• If repeated loosening occurs → likely structural degradation.

If the Problem Persists

If all external hardware has been checked and instability remains, the issue is likely internal structural wear or frame failure.

The device should be:

• Removed from service
• Labeled Out of Service
• Sent for repair or full structural evaluation

Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe equipment from returning to patient care.

Clinical Use Tip

Never attempt to “use carefully” with a loose frame. Even minor instability can rapidly worsen during patient transfer and lead to falls.

Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)

CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution

Complaint

What was reported by the clinical staff.

Example:
"Staff reported Sara Stedy lift felt loose and unstable during patient transfer."

Cause

What was observed during troubleshooting.

Example:
"Loose frame hardware found at base-to-column joint; no structural cracks observed."

Resolution

What action was taken.

Example:
"Tightened hardware, verified stability, and returned unit to service."

Helpful Details to Include (If Known)

• Specific joint location of looseness
• Hardware condition (loose, missing, stripped)
• Presence of cracks or frame damage
• Any unusual sounds (creaking, clicking)
• Device age or high-use area
• Final device status (in service vs out of service)

Final Thought

Frame stability is critical for safe patient handling. Always start with simple mechanical checks, but do not overlook signs of structural fatigue. Proper escalation protects both patients and staff while reinforcing the value of thorough, documented troubleshooting.

That is successful troubleshooting.